FAQ

The basic components required to produce electricity from the sun are : One or more Solar Panels, a Charger Controller, a Power Inverter, and of course, Batteries

The first component needed is one or more Solar Panels. They supply the electricity and charge the batteries.

A Charge Controller. is needed to prevent overcharging of the batteries. Proper charging will prevent damage and increase the life and performance of the batteries.

The Power Inverter is the heart of the system. It makes 220 volts AC from the 12 volts DC stored in the batteries. It can also charge the batteries if connected to a generator or the AC line.

Last are the storage Batteries. They store the electrical power in the form of a chemical reaction. Without storage you would only have power when the sun was shining or the generator was running. For on-grid system, batteries are not needed. For more information on on-grid or grid tie systems, please see explanations bottom part.

2. How big a solar energy system do I need?

A: The size of solar system you need depends on several factors such as how much electricity or hot water or space heat you use, how, the size of your roof, and how much you’re willing to invest. Also, do you want the system to supply your complete energy usage or to supplant a portion of your higher cost energy usage?. You can talk to our system designer/installer to determine what type of system would suit your needs

3. Q: How is a solar electric system designed, installed, and maintained?

A: As your supplier, we can provide you a compete instructions manual so you can install a photovoltaic (PV) or solar electric system yourself. But to avoid complications or injury, you will probably want to hire a reputable professional contractor with experience in installing solar systems. PV systems have few moving parts, so they require little maintenance. The components are designed to meet strict dependability and durability standards so they can stand up to the elements. However, they are fairly sophisticated electric systems, so installation usually requires the knowledge of an experienced installer.

4. If my energy requirements increase, can I upgrade the system?

Yes. Additional solar panels can be added at any time to increase generating capability but you might have to upgrade to a larger inverter. Alternatively you could purchase a larger inverter when installing the system initially and then plan to add some extra solar panels later.

5. What is the weight of the solar system on the roof?

The system weighs approximately 27 kilograms per square meter (a 1KW system is approximately 10 square meters).

6. Is there any maintenance involved?

There is very little maintenance required. Electronic components should be maintenance free. Normal periodic cleaning with water for the solar panels is necessary.

7. What is a Grid Tie or On-grid system?

If you are connected to normal Utility company power and just want to add some Free Sun Power electricity to reduce your electric bill and you do not need a independent system, it is possible that a Grid Tie inverter will suit your needs. With a Grid Tie inverter, whatever electricity that your solar panels produce will reduce the amount supplied by the power company, in effect lowering your bill. Naturally, the bigger the system, the bigger the benefit. But the disadvantage of this type of system is you don’t have a battery. Meaning, you don’t have a back up power storage and during brownouts, the grid-tie system will also shut down your power supply.

8. How does electricity get stored for use cloudy days or after the sun goes down?

During the night when your system does not produce and electricity you draw your power from the main grid or your electric company and your electricity meter measures your consumption.

9. Will it help the environment if I get solar power?

Solar power generation produces no greenhouse gas e

missions or air pollution. The energy used to

manufacture a solar power system is small compared

to the energy generated by the system and is

paid back many times over the life of the system.

10. How long is the return of investment (ROi) of a solar power system ?